Gopher Appearance
Gophers, also known as pocket gophers, are burrowing rodents named for the fur-lined pockets in their cheeks. Other rodents also have this feature, though gophers’ pouches open on the outside. The pests are excellent at tunneling due to their strong claws, short limbs, loose skin, and small eyes and ears. Most gophers have some shade of gray or brown fur, while their tails have little to no hair at all. Gophers use their large and ever-growing front teeth to break up soil and rocks while they dig.
How to Identify Pocket Gophers in Your Yard
Gophers spend much of their time underground, so it is unlikely you’ll see a gopher in your yard. It is much more likely to see their holes and tunnels. The first signs of gopher yard damage are the dirt mounds they make all over your yard. Each mound represents a tunnel entry. They dig one to three mounds per day, on average 70 per month, and they can excavate hundreds of feet of tunnels underground.
Typical Gopher Damage
These pests can attack lawns, orchards, and gardens in search of food. Gophers differ from similar-looking rodents because they are not omnivores, instead feeding on crops, ornamentals, shrubs, and vines. They can also damage irrigation lines and sprinkler systems by gnawing on the plastic tubing. Gopher tunnels divert water and erode soil as well, causing even more damage. Their mounds are obstacles for property owners when mowing and can be an unsightly blemish on otherwise pristine yards.
Gopher Trapping & Removal
Intercepting gophers is difficult without the proper tools and training. To successfully capture gophers, traps must be placed at each entrance to a presumed tunnel, which can be both costly and time-consuming. For humane removal of problem gophers from the property, contact the wildlife specialists at Critter Control.
